Americans with commercial insurance are generally told they have access to a strong network of mental health providers. But when researchers called providers listed in those networks, securing an appointment was usually difficult or impossible, according to a new study.

Some of nature’s healthful benefits might be possible through well-curated ornamental spaces, suggests a brain activity study recently published in the October issue of Building and Environment from researchers at Drexel’s Nick Howley College of Engineering and Computing. The findings, which reveal new insights into how humans experience nature, may lead to scalable, evidence-based ways to design spaces to produce restorative benefits, which could be especially helpful for those who do not have convenient access to plants outdoors.

New University of Cincinnati research published in the journal Health Expectations found participants in stroke rehabilitation research desire an approach that prioritizes shared decision-making, peer relationships and a focus on what they can accomplish rather than their deficits.

JMIR Publications this week released three News and Perspectives features on the latest digital health news: stories on how informed consent must be rethought for clinical trials involving AI; Canada’s proposed Safe Social Media Act and the Canadian Medical Association’s support; and a promising new autonomous oxygen titration device for health care.

Over 50 experts – clinicians, researchers, policymakers, first responders and representatives from agencies that employ and advocate for them – have reached consensus on the first-ever recommendations for the recognition, diagnosis and management of traumatic brain injury in first responders. The 52 authors agreed to 28 recommendations designed to help first responders, healthcare professionals and agencies work toward five primary goals: timely recognition of traumatic brain injury (TBI), safe recovery, operational readiness, reduced stigma and first responder-centered care. The guidelines apply to law enforcement officers, corrections personnel, firefighters and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) – a group of professionals at high risk for violent interactions, falls and car crashes working in a demanding culture that makes it tough to seek help.